By the Hervey Bay Neighbourhood Centre
As we approach June 15th, World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD), the Hervey Bay Neighbourhood Centre (HBNC) is calling on our community to shine a light on an often-hidden issue. Elder abuse is a single or repeated act, or lack of appropriate action, occurring within a relationship of trust that causes harm or distress to an older person. The abuse may be physical, emotional, financial or neglect.
In our region, the Seniors Legal and Support Service (SLASS) Fraser Coast—managed by HBNC—is on the frontline of this challenge. Our recent submission to the Queensland Parliamentary Inquiry into Elder Abuse highlighted the stark reality facing many of our neighbours.
In the 2023-2024 period alone, our dedicated team provided over 2,200 hours of case management and support, helping hundreds of seniors navigate complex and often heartbreaking situations.
The Local Landscape, our submission revealed, was that financial abuse and scamming are among the most prevalent issues in the Fraser Coast. With 55% of local seniors reporting scam experiences, our Seniors Financial Protection Service has become a support avenue. From “fake computer cleanse” pop-ups to sophisticated romance scams sometimes involving fake celebrity rock stars or TV personalities, our elders are being targeted due to perceived vulnerabilities in digital literacy and loneliness.
Beyond financial exploitation, our caseworkers frequently support seniors facing “intergenerational conflict,” where abusive family members refuse to leave the family home, or where carer stress leads to unintentional neglect. We have seen firsthand how mobility and face-to-face support can change lives; our staff often meet clients in hospitals, aged care facilities, or even public parks to ensure they have a safe space to speak.
This June, we encourage everyone to look out for the signs of elder abuse, which can include sudden changes in a senior’s financial situation, unexplained bruises, or withdrawal from social activities.
If you or someone you know is experiencing or at risk of elder abuse, help is available.
SLASS provides free, confidential legal and support services for people aged 60+ (or 50+ for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people).
Together, we can ensure the Fraser Coast remains a safe, respectful, and supportive home for everyone as they age.
